Oct. 20, 1999
NOTRE DAME, Ind. – I do not tell the players to avoid reading the newspapers. I am not going to do that, just like I would not tell them to avoid talking to the media. You have to be able to handle what is said. I would advise them however, to take what they read with a grain of salt and try not to get caught up in it.
It is not that the media have bad intentions or that they do not write accurately, but they do not always have all of the information. They just get bits and pieces. It does not make sense to subject yourself to other’s opinions when their opinions are only based on part of the truth. I do realize though, that it is not easy to ignore what is written about you, and I am careful not to paint a picture of us against them when the media is concerned.
Our Life Skills program has been very instrumental in assisting our players and coaches with their media interaction skills. We have all participated in sessions geared towards improving our interview skills, everything from videotaping ourselves to responding to hostile questioning.
There are still however, those times that no matter how much you have prepared, you will have to rely on your reactions. In those situations the best advice I can give our players is to be honest and straightforward.
I always emphasize to our players that it is not what you say, but what you do. Don’t be a media or pep rally darling, let your actions on the field make everyone appreciate your abilities and accomplishments.
Notre Dame provides a tremendous stage for all of us. If you are not careful you will spend too much time trying to take advantage of that forum. It is easy to spend time worrying about how to tweak something or how best to get your point across, but that only takes time away from your real job, working on your studies or preparing for the next game
I have seen players and coaches alike fall victim to this in the past. Again, it is not what you say, but what you do. The thing that will endear you to the press and the Notre Dame fans is what you do on the field and in the classroom.